Keaukaha fatality 06-17-13

Media Release

A 23-year old Hilo man died Friday (June 14) from injuries he received in a one-vehicle crash on Kalanianaole Avenue near Kioea Street in Hilo.

Responding to a 11:06 p.m. call, Hilo Patrol Officers determined that a 2006 Acura sedan was traveling westbound on Kalanianaole Avenue, crossed the center line, ran off the roadway and struck a utility pole and a rock wall.

The driver, who was identified as Joseph Nieves Jr. of Hilo, died at the scene. An 18-year-old male passenger of Hilo was taken to Hilo Medical Center for injuries sustained in crash and later transferred to Honolulu.

The driver and the passenger were both wearing their seat belts.

Police believe that speed and alcohol were both factors in this crash.

Traffic Enforcement Unit officers have initiated coroners inquest and negligent injury investigations and have ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Police ask that anyone with information about this crash call Officer Tuckloy Aurello at 961-8119 or at taurello@co.hawaii.hi.us.

This is the 18th traffic fatality on Hawaii Island this year compared with 14 at the same time last year.